U.S. patent application number 11/723596 was filed with the patent office on 2007-10-11 for orthopedic brace.
Invention is credited to Tracy Grim, Wendee Lee, Stacy Wyatt.
Application Number | 20070239093 11/723596 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38541642 |
Filed Date | 2007-10-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070239093 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wyatt; Stacy ; et
al. |
October 11, 2007 |
Orthopedic brace
Abstract
An orthopedic brace is adaptable for either left or right sided
use. The brace includes a softgood pad having a distal edge, a
proximal edge opposite the distal edge, a dorsal edge, and a radial
edge opposite the dorsal edge. A strap retainer is disposed on the
radial or ulnar edge, and a strap pod is removably attachable to
the pad in a left or right sided closure position. The strap pod
cooperates with the strap retainer to secure the pad closed about a
left limb, when the strap pod is attached in the left sided closure
position, or about a right limb, when the strap pod is attached in
the right sided closure position. A distal retention strap extends
from the pad proximate to the distal and radial edges, and a
reversible fastening member is coupled to the distal retention
strap.
Inventors: |
Wyatt; Stacy; (Camarillo,
CA) ; Grim; Tracy; (Thousand Oaks, CA) ; Lee;
Wendee; (Upland, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BACON & THOMAS, PLLC
625 SLATERS LANE
FOURTH FLOOR
ALEXANDRIA
VA
22314
US
|
Family ID: |
38541642 |
Appl. No.: |
11/723596 |
Filed: |
March 21, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60784447 |
Mar 22, 2006 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
602/21 ;
602/12 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61F 5/0118
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
602/021 ;
602/012 |
International
Class: |
A61F 5/00 20060101
A61F005/00 |
Claims
1. An orthopedic brace, comprising: a pad having a distal edge, a
proximal edge opposite the distal edge, a dorsal edge, and a radial
edge opposite the dorsal edge, the pad further defining first and
second sides; at least one strap retainer disposed on the radial
edge or the dorsal edge; a strap pod having an attaching portion
and at least one strap extending from the attaching portion, the
attaching portion being removably securable to the first and second
sides of the pad in either of a left or a right sided closure
position, the at least one strap cooperating with the at least one
strap retainer for securing the pad in a closed position about a
left limb when the attaching portion is placed in the left sided
closure position or about a right limb when the attaching portion
is placed in the right sided closure position; a distal retaining
strap extending from the pad from a position proximate to the
distal and radial edges; and a reversible fastening member coupled
to the distal retaining strap by a swivel, the reversible fastening
member defining a first surface having a hook fastening material
disposed thereon, wherein the reversible fastening member is
configured to secure the distal retaining strap to either the first
or second sides of the pad; wherein the orthopedic brace is
adaptable for either left or right sided use by positioning the
strap pod on the pad in either of the left or right sided closure
positions.
2. The brace according to claim 1, further comprising a palmar stay
removably disposed in a palmar region of the pad, the palmar stay
being reversible to accommodate left or right handed closure
positions.
3. The orthopedic brace according to claim 1, further comprising a
palmar stay pocket defined in a palmar region of the pad and
adapted to removably receive a palmar stay, the palmar stay being
reversible to accommodate left or right handed closure
positions.
4. The orthopedic brace according to claim 1, further comprising at
least one dorsal stay disposed in a dorsal region of the pad.
5. The orthopedic brace according to claim 1, wherein the pad has a
generally central ulnar section having a concave ulnar dip formed
along the distal edge.
6. The orthopedic brace according to claim 5, wherein the pad has a
palmar pocket formed along one side of the ulnar section and
extending between the proximal and distal edges, the palmar pocket
having an opening at the proximal edge for insertion of a palmar
stay in either a left or a right sided orientation.
7. The orthopedic brace according to claim 5, wherein the pad has a
dorsal section formed along one side of the ulnar section and
extending between the proximal and distal edges, and at least one
dorsal stay disposed within the dorsal section.
8. The orthopedic brace according to claim 1, further comprising a
tongue extending from an edge of the pad, and a hook pad removably
attached to a surface of the tongue.
9. The orthopedic brace according to claim 1, wherein the
reversible fastening member includes color coded marking or indicia
indicating the correct attachment position of the reversible
fastening member for left and right handed closure positions.
10. The orthopedic brace according to claim 1, further comprising a
non-hook receivable piping extending about at least some of the
periphery of the pad.
11. The orthopedic brace according to claim 11, further comprising:
an intermediate strap secured to the pad near or at the radial edge
thereof; at least one strap retainer connected to the pad and
arranged for receiving the intermediate strap; wherein the strap
pod defines a slot adapted for receiving the intermediate strap,
the strap pod being slidable along the intermediate strap and
relative to the pad.
12. An orthopedic brace, comprising: a pad having a distal edge, a
proximal edge opposite the distal edge, a dorsal edge, and a radial
edge opposite the dorsal edge, the pad having first and second
sides each comprising loop fastening material forming a generally
continuous surface extending substantially the entirety of the
corresponding side; a detachable strap pod having an attaching
portion and at least one strap extending from the attaching
portion, the attaching portion being removably securable to the
loop fastening material of both the first and second sides of the
pad, the at least one strap securable to the first and second sides
of the pad; and a distal closure member extending from or near the
distal edge of the pad, the distal closure member having at least
one attachment member securable to the first and second sides of
the pad.
13. The orthopedic brace according to claim 12, wherein the distal
closure member is a retention strap extending from the pad from a
position proximate to the distal and radial edges, a reversible
fastening member being coupled to the distal retention strap and
configured to secure the distal retention strap to the first and
second sides of the pad.
14. The orthopedic brace according to claim 13, wherein the
reversible fastening member includes a first surface having a hook
fastener disposed thereon.
15. The orthopedic brace according to claim 13, wherein the
reversible fastening member is coupled to the distal retention
strap by a swivel.
16. The orthopedic brace according to claim 12, wherein the
surfaces of the first and second sides of the pad are defined by an
unbroken loop material.
17. The orthopedic brace according to claim 12, further comprising:
an intermediate strap secured to the pad near or at the radial edge
thereof, at least one strap retainer connected to the pad and
arranged for receiving the intermediate strap; wherein the strap
pod defines a slot adapted for receiving the intermediate strap,
the strap pod being slidable along the intermediate strap and
relative to the pad.
18. The orthopedic brace according to claim 12, further comprising
a dorsal section removably connecting to the radial and ulnar sides
of the pad.
19. An orthopedic brace, comprising: a pad having proximal and
distal edges, the pad having first and second sides each comprising
loop fastening material forming a generally continuous surface
extending substantially the entirety of the corresponding side; a
strap pod having an attaching portion and at least one strap, the
attaching portion removably securable to either side of the pad for
securing the pad in a closed position; a reversible fastening
member being coupled to the pad and configured to secure to the
first and second sides of the pad.
20. The orthopedic brace according to claim 19, wherein the
reversible fastening member includes a first surface having a hook
fastener disposed thereon.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.
provisional application 60/784,447, filed on Mar. 22, 2006.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to orthopedic braces. More
specifically, the invention relates to an orthopedic brace that is
adaptable for either left or right sided use, and is readily
adjustable to accommodate a variety of straps that may secure to a
plurality of locations and sides of a softgood pad in order to
provide adjustability for various hand and wrist sizes.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Numerous orthopedic supports and braces have been devised to
provide therapeutic support or immobilization of a limb or
extremity of a patient. Such supports and braces range from simple
elastic or softgood bandages and braces to complicated mechanical
devices. Hand and wrist braces including means for supporting a
thumb or other digit, for example, often comprise an elastic or
softgood member that may wrapped about the patient's hand, wrist,
or other digit. These braces may be supplemented for one or more
particular therapeutic purposes by the addition of rigid or
semi-rigid support members, stays, splints, or the like.
[0004] It is generally desired for an orthopedic brace to be
applied to a limb or extremity in a particular position or
orientation to achieve a good fit. For example, a wrist brace that
includes a palmar stay intended to support the hand in a "cock-up"
position, must be positioned so that the palmar stay is located
along the palmar side of the wrist and hand, and so that a bend in
the distal portion of the palmar stay is angled toward, rather than
away from, the palm of the hand. Similarly, a wrist brace that
includes dorsal supports must be worn such that the dorsal supports
are located along the dorsal side of the wrist.
[0005] Even a brace that includes no support members, such as the
aforementioned palmar and dorsal stays, may be shaped according to
particular features of a limb. For example, a wrist brace often
extends well onto the hand, and may have a distal portion that is
contoured or configured to be wrapped about the hand between the
thumb and forefinger.
[0006] Given the need to apply an orthopedic brace in a particular
position or orientation relative to a part of a limb, known
orthopedic braces are typically configured for only left or right
sided use. Unfortunately, may known left and right sided braces are
not interchangeable; that is, a left handed wrist brace cannot be
used on a right wrist.
[0007] This can be more fully appreciated by recalling the example
previously described wherein a wrist brace includes a palmar stay
intended to support the hand in a "cock-up" position. In this
example, to simply apply a left handed brace to the right wrist
"backwards," by turning the left handed brace "inside out," for
example, does not reverse the palmar stay and would be ineffective
because the palmar stay is not reoriented into the correct position
for the right hand.
[0008] Further, and more generally, straps or fasteners that are
located on the outside of a left handed brace, when applied to the
left hand, would be located on the inside of the left handed brace
when "turned inside out" for right handed use, therefore becoming
useless or causing discomfort for a wearer of the brace. Thus, it
is necessary for physicians, physical therapists, medical
suppliers, and the like, to maintain a supply of both left and
right handed braces.
[0009] Many known braces restrict the locations at which straps are
secured to a main body softgood pad. These braces generally employ
patches of corresponding hook and loop material on the straps and
the main body, respectively. By restricting the locations of hook
and loop material, a wearer is limited at where the strap will
secure on the main body. Moreover, the general brace also lacks the
flexibility to accommodate different straps and extensions from the
main body that allow for securing a variety of different
appendages.
[0010] In addition to the drawback of known braces typically being
restricted for either left or right handed use, many known braces
are limited as to their ability to accommodate certain sizes of
appendages. As is well understood, injured wrists, hands or digits
(i.e., thumb and fingers), often swell as they heal. It follows
that a brace used to support these appendages must be adaptable to
various sizes of injured wrists, hands or digits as they undergo
healing. Moreover, dressings in addition to the brace and proximate
to the skin of the wearer may be used in combination with the
brace, wherein the brace extends over such dressings. In view of
these size variations of both the wrists, hands or digits, and the
possibility of dressings being used in combination with the brace,
it is desirable to provide a brace that enables a wide range of
size adjustability.
SUMMARY
[0011] In accordance with the invention, embodiments of orthopedic
braces are described herein which have numerous configurations that
may permit the usage of the brace for both left and right handed
use. These embodiments include a variety of strap arrangements that
may be used with a softgood pad that has surfaces generally defined
by continuous loop or hook receivable material. These strap
arrangements provide for adjustability as to sizing thereby
allowing a single brace to accommodate a wider variety of sizes
than by known braces.
[0012] Pursuant to one embodiment, an orthopedic brace is provided
that may be selectively configured for use in either a left or
right sided limb or extremity, such as a left or right wrist, and
to accommodate a variety of wrist sizes. This wrist brace comprises
a main body softgood pad. At least one strap retainer is disposed
on a radial or an ulnar side of the pad, and a strap pod is
removably attachable to the pad in either of a left sided closure
position and a right sided closure position. The strap pod includes
at least one strap depending therefrom that cooperates with the
strap retainer to secure the pad in a closed position.
[0013] The wrist brace includes an intermediate strap that is
secured to the pad near the radial edge thereof. A corresponding
strap retainer is provided for receiving the intermediate strap.
The strap pod defines a slot adapted for receiving the intermediate
strap, wherein the strap pod is slidable relative to the
intermediate strap and the pad. The wrist brace may also include a
dorsal flap that connects to the radial and ulnar sides of the pad.
The dorsal strap has a hook fastener which connects to at least one
of the radial and ulnar sides of the pad.
[0014] According to another feature of the wrist brace, a distal
retaining strap extends from the pad and has a reversible fastening
member configured to secure the distal retaining strap to either
surface of the pad. This distal retaining strap facilitates closure
of the pad and secures the distal retaining strap in either the
left or right sided closure position, and allows for a variety of
brace sizes.
[0015] In another embodiment of the orthopedic brace, the brace is
adapted for securing a thumb. This thumb brace includes a thumb
stay disposed in a thumb stay pocket formed by the pad. A distal
closure member may extend from or near the distal edge of the pad,
and include a radial extension depending from the pad. An
intermediate flap extends from the radial extension and is
configured to extend about the thumb stay. The intermediate flap
may have at least one strap securable to substantially the entirety
of the first and second sides of the pad.
[0016] According to one feature of the thumb brace, the
intermediate flap may include a crease that divides the
intermediate flap into first and second sections. The first and
second sections each include at least one strap extending
therefrom, and may be configured to generally extend about the
thumb stay to secure to any location on the pad.
[0017] In any of the embodiments of the orthopedic brace, the pad
may include mutually opposed surfaces that are entirely or
substantially formed of, or covered with, a loop fastening material
thereby enabling a hook fastening material to be adhered to any
part of either of the surfaces of the pad. Thus, components of the
orthopedic brace, such as the strap pod and the straps depending
therefrom, may employ a hook fastening material so that the
components are selectively fastened to either side of the pad to
thereby facilitate reconfiguration of the brace for left and right
sided use.
[0018] As a result of the surface configuration of the pad, the
orthopedic brace may be adaptable for either left or right sided
use by positioning the strap pod on the pad in either the left or
right sided closure position, or rotating the reversible fastening
member to secure the distal retaining strap in either position.
[0019] Hence, certain embodiments described herein and the features
thereof result in a single brace that may be used for both left and
right sided applications, otherwise known as "universal,"
eliminating the need for physicians, physical therapists, medical
suppliers, and others, to maintain a supply of both left and right
sided braces. The embodiments herein also enable a single brace to
accommodate a wide variety of hands, wrist and digits thereby
reducing the amount of sizes that are necessary for storage, and
enabling the wearer to adjust the brace according to degrees of
swelling or simply to allow for greater comfort. Yet another
advantage to the universal fitting and wide range of fitting of the
brace is that a plurality of the universal orthopedic braces
suitable for both left and right sided application may be more
compactly packaged and stored.
[0020] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the
present invention will become better understood with regard to the
following description, appended claims, and accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an
orthopedic brace.
[0022] FIG. 2 is an assembly plan view of the brace of FIG. 1.
[0023] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the reversible fastening
member in the brace of FIG. 1.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a plan view of a first side of the strap pod shown
in FIG. 1.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a plan view of a second side of the strap pod
shown in FIG. 1.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a plan view of a first side of the hook tab shown
in FIG. 1.
[0027] FIG. 7 is a plan view of a first side of the hook tab shown
in FIG. 1.
[0028] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the brace of FIG. 1
positioned for use about a left wrist.
[0029] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the brace of FIG. 1
positioned for use about a right wrist.
[0030] FIG. 10 is a side plan view of a first side of another
embodiment of the orthopedic brace.
[0031] FIG. 11 is a side plan view of a second side of the brace of
FIG. 10.
[0032] FIG. 12 is a top plan of the brace of FIG. 10.
[0033] FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along line 13-13 in FIG.
12.
[0034] FIG. 14 is a thumb stay for the brace of FIG. 10.
[0035] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the strap pod for the brace
of FIG. 10.
[0036] FIG. 16 is a first perspective view of the brace of FIG. 10
positioned for use on a right wrist.
[0037] FIG. 17 is a second perspective view of the brace of FIG. 10
positioned for use on a right wrist.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
[0038] A better understanding of different embodiments and methods
of the invention may be had from the following description read in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference
characters refer to like elements.
[0039] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative constructions, certain illustrative embodiments
thereof are shown in the drawings and will be described below in
detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no
intention to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments and
methods disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover
all modifications, alternative constructions, combinations, and
equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure
and defined by the appended claims.
[0040] It will be understood that, unless a term is expressly
defined in this disclosure to possess a described meaning, there is
no intent to limit the meaning of such term, either expressly or
indirectly, beyond its plain or ordinary meaning.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, one embodiment of the orthopedic
brace is embodied as a wrist brace 10. The wrist brace 10 may be
selectively configured for use about either a left or right limb or
extremity, and to accommodate a variety of wrist sizes.
[0042] The illustrated embodiment is a wrist brace that is adapted
to be wrapped about a person's wrist to stabilize or support the
wrist and hand, and can be configured for either the left wrist or
the right wrist by simply reconfiguring or repositioning certain
components of the brace. It will be understood that the inventive
features herein may be employed in other orthopedic braces which
are capable of configuration for both left and right limbs, such as
for ankles and feet.
[0043] The illustrated embodiment of the wrist brace 10 comprises a
generally rectangular softgood pad 20 having a distal edge 22, a
proximal edge 24 opposite the distal edge 22, a dorsal edge 26, and
a radial edge 28 opposite the dorsal edge 26. Surfaces of the pad
20 of this embodiment comprise a material (such as unbroken loop
fabric, pile fabric, or any other material which is hook
receivable, hereafter loop fastening material) to which a hook
fastening material (the hook portion of a hook and loop type
fastening material commonly referred to by the trademark VELCRO)
may be removably adhered. The surfaces of the pad 20 are generally
denoted in the drawings as an unbroken loop material under
reference numeral 70.
[0044] While in specific embodiments the loop fastening material
may be confined to certain areas or patches located on specific
parts of the surfaces of the pad 20 to define certain fastening
areas, the surfaces may be entirely formed of, or covered with, the
loop fastening material such that a hook fastening material may be
adhered to any part of the surfaces of the pad 20. Preferably, such
loop fastening material is an unbroken loop material that prevents
catching of the brace on sharp objects (as may occur with broken
loop material), and further provides a texture that is pleasing to
the wearer of the brace.
[0045] A distal closure member or distal retaining strap 30 extends
from a distal portion of the pad 20. In the illustrated embodiment
of FIG. 1, the distal retaining strap 30 is a thumb strap extending
from a position proximate to the distal and radial edges 22,
28.
[0046] The construction of the retaining strap provides a wrist
brace that may be worn by wrapping the pad about the wrist and a
lower portion of the hand, and securing the retaining strap from
one side of the hand to the other between the thumb and forefinger.
The retaining strap prevents the brace sliding off of the hand in
the distal direction. It will be understood that the distal
retaining strap may be differently configured for various other
body portions different from a thumb, or the distal retaining strap
may be eliminated entirely.
[0047] As depicted in FIG. 1, a reversible fastening member 32 is
coupled to the distal retaining strap 30. The reversible fastening
member 32 is configured to connect and secure the distal retaining
strap 30 to either surface of the pad 20. The reversible fastening
member 32 is preferably rounded and sufficiently large so as to
facilitate its application and removal onto the pad 20.
[0048] In observing FIG. 3, hook fastening material 34 is disposed
on one surface of the reversible fastening member 32 to removably
adhere the reversible fastening member 32 to a surface of the pad
20. While the hook fastening material 34 could be applied to both
surfaces of the reversible fastening member 32 (or to both surfaces
of the distal retaining strap 30 itself), it is preferable that a
surface of the reversible fastening member 32 has a smooth surface
(such as in a loop material 72) instead of the hook fastening
material 34. This construction minimizes areas of the hook
fastening material 34 that are exposed while a person is wearing
the universal wrist brace 10 so as to prevent the hook material
from catching and damaging on clothing or other articles, and
resulting in injury or trauma to the person of those in
contact.
[0049] The reversible fastening member 32 is preferably coupled to
the distal retaining strap 30 by a swivel cord 36 connected to the
fastening member 32 via a swivel retainer 38. The swivel cord 36
enables the reversible fastening member 32 to be turned so that the
hook fastening material 34 faces the pad 20 in either a left sided
or a right sided configuration. The swivel cord 36 preferably
comprises a cord loop that allows the reversible fastening member
32 to be turned relative to the swivel retainer 38. An alternative
swivel cord may be employed such as a barrel swivel or other
suitable swivel fastener.
[0050] FIG. 8 exemplifies the reversible fastening member 32 in a
normal configuration for placement on a left hand. Alternatively,
FIG. 9 shows the reversible fastening member 32 "reversed," by
twisting the cord loop for placement on a right hand.
[0051] In a variation of the hook fastening material 34, the
reversible fastening member 32 may be provided on one or both sides
with a snap fastener or the like, and corresponding fasteners may
be provided on the pad 20. In another variation, the distal
retaining strap 30 may be separate from the pad 20, and removably
attached to the pad 20 in either of a left or right sided
orientation by a hook fastening material disposed on the distal
retaining strap 20. In yet another variation, the swivel retainer
38 may include releasable means for detaching the swivel cord 36,
such that the releasable means includes a snap fastener or a
hook-and-loop connection.
[0052] As noted previously, the pad 20 is adapted to be secured
about either of a left wrist or a right wrist, or other extremity
or limb by a closure system that can be configured for either left
or right sided use. In the exemplary embodiment of the wrist of
FIGS. 1 and 2, the closure system comprises at least one strap
retainer 40 disposed on either the radial edge 28 or the dorsal
edge 26 of the pad 20. The strap retainer 40 is embodied as a pair
of loops disposed on the radial edge 28 for receiving a belt or
strap member.
[0053] In observing FIGS. 4-7 in combination with FIGS. 1 and 2, a
strap pod 42 is provided to cooperate with the strap retainer 40 to
secure the pad 20 in a closed position. The strap pod 42 is
removably attachable to the pad 20 in either of a left or a right
sided closure position. This arrangement allows the wrist brace 10
to be configured for either left or right sided use by positioning
the strap pod 42 on the pad 20 in either the left or the right
sided closure position (i.e., on suitable sides of the pad 20).
[0054] The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 shows a
preferred strap pod 42 defined as a strap-type fastening member and
having an attaching portion 44 for connecting the strap pod 42 to
the pad 20. The strap pod 42 also includes at least one strap 46
extending from the attaching portion 44 and arranged to cooperate
with the strap retainer 40 to secure the pad 20 in a closed
position. While a pair of straps 46 are shown corresponding with
the pair of loops shown in FIG. 2, other arrangements may be
employed. Such other arrangements may include a single or a
plurality of strap and strap retainer combinations.
[0055] The attaching portion 44 is removably attachable to a
surface of the pad 20 in either of the left or the right sided
closure positions. This is at least in part so the strap 46 can
cooperate with the strap retainer 40 for securing the pad 20 in a
closed position about a left wrist when the attaching portion 44 is
connected in the left sided closure position, or about a right
wrist when the attaching portion 44 is attached in the right sided
closure position. The attaching portion 44 has a first side
substantially covered with a hook fastening material 45 for
removably connecting the attaching portion 44 to the pad 20.
[0056] At least one patch of the hook fastening material 47 is
disposed on the other side of the attaching portion 44
corresponding with the strap 46. The strap 46 is made from, or has
a surface at least partially covered with, a material that may be
removably adhered to the hook fastening material 47. Further, the
strap 46 may include loop material 49, either broken or unbroken,
along the same side with the hook fastening material 47. The loop
material 49 may be necessitated in the event that there are
selectively located patches of corresponding hook material on the
pad or on other attachments located on the pad.
[0057] In a variation of the strap 46, hook fastening material 47
may be located on a portion of at least one strap 46 in order to
arrange the strap 46 in cooperation with other material or
components of the strap 46. In another variation, the straps are
fastened directly to the edge of the pad 20 opposite the strap
retainer 40, and the fastening portion 44 is eliminated. It follows
that by being fastened to an edge of the pad 20, there is no need
to remove and relocate the straps 46. In yet another variation, the
strap retainer 40 may be made to be removably attachable to the pad
20 and the strap pod fixed, or both may be removable.
[0058] Returning to FIGS. 1 and 2, a tongue 66 is provided which
extends from an edge of the pad 20 opposite the strap retainer 40
so as to protect the radial side of the hand from closure members
such as the strap retainer 40. According to this embodiment, the
tongue 66 is a rectangular panel that extends from the dorsal edge
26 opposite the strap retainer 40. The tongue 66 is preferably made
of a material that will distribute and spread the force of pressure
points caused by the fastening members in order to increase patient
comfort. A hook tab 68 is removably attachable to the tongue 66,
and may be used to fasten the tongue 66 in place along the radial
edge 28 when the wrist brace 10 is wrapped about a wrist.
[0059] Alternatively, the tongue 66 may be a substantially flexible
material that essentially conforms to the anatomy of the wearer of
the brace, and covers the corresponding anatomy of the wearer. The
tongue may be permanently or removably secured to one or both of
the radial and ulnar sides of the pad.
[0060] In an embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the hook tab
68 has a first side substantially covered with a hook fastening
material 69 to secure the hook tab to the tongue 66, and a second
side having a smaller area covered with the hook fastening material
71. The hook fastening material 69 is arranged for attachment to
the tongue 66 on an outer side of the pad, the side depending on
the left or right sided configuration of the wrist brace.
Alternatively, the hook fastening material 71 is in contact with an
inner side of the pad, again the side depending on the left or
right sided configuration of the wrist brace.
[0061] The configuration of the hook tab 68 thereby allows it to be
positioned on the tongue 66, and the tongue 66 to be secured to and
removed from the radial edge 28 of the pad 20. This configuration
minimizes a tendency for the hook tab 68 to be pulled from the
tongue 66 during the process of applying and removing the wrist
brace 10. As with other features described herein, the hook tab 68
remains removable for placement on either side of the tongue 66 to
accommodate either left or right sided closure of the wrist brace
10.
[0062] The pad itself, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, may be
configured for application as a wrist brace having a central ulnar
section 50, a dorsal section 52 adjoining one edge of the ulnar
section 50, a palmar section 54 adjoining an edge of the ulnar
section 50 opposite the dorsal section 52, and a radial section 56
adjoining an edge of the palmar section 54 opposite the ulnar
section 50. The distal retaining strap 30 extends from the pad to a
position between the distal 22 and radial edges 28, adjacent to the
palmar 54 and radial sections 56.
[0063] As best illustrated in FIG. 2, the pad 20 may define an
ulnar dip 51 that is formed as a concave region along the distal
edge 22 generally coincident with the ulnar section 50. The ulnar
dip provides conformity with or accommodation of physical features
of a wearer's hand.
[0064] A piping 35 is provided along the radial edge 28, the distal
edge 22, the dorsal edge, proximal edge, and the edges defining
outer portions of the tongue 66 and the distal closure member 30.
The piping 35, as depicted in FIG. 3, may be arranged so as to
bound the pad 20, and the sections associated therewith. The piping
35 may be an unbroken loop material or comprise other materials
such as those that are not hook receivable.
[0065] The piping 35 may form a raised section 37 with the pad 20,
and the stitching used to secure the piping onto the pad. The
piping is arranged so as to place the edges of the pad comfortably
against the wrist of the wearer. As an alternative, the pad may
include areas that have a greater thickness than other areas, as
exemplified by the raised portion. These raised areas may be
provided at locations where additional padding and support is
required.
[0066] Variations in the size of limbs may cause problems in fit of
the wrist brace 10. For example, forearm size varies among people
more significantly than wrist size. In certain embodiments, the pad
may be provided with lengthwise slits (for example from the
proximal toward the distal edge). While not specifically shown, a
stretch material (as in the material represented by 144 in FIGS. 11
and 12) may be sewn into such slits to allow for expandability of
the pad 20 to fit larger limbs. Alternatively, the seams dividing
the sections of the pad may be replaced by stretchable material
sewn to opposed edges of adjacent sections of the pad.
[0067] Splints, stays, or the like may be provided in any of the
sections, either fixed within a section or removably inserted in a
pocket formed within one of the aforementioned sections of the pad.
In the illustrated wrist brace embodiment, a palmar stay 58 is
removably disposed within a palmar pocket 60 coincident with the
palmar section 54. The palmar pocket 60 has an opening along or
near the proximal edge of the pad 20.
[0068] Because the palmar stay 58 is removable from the palmar
pocket 60, it may be reversed so that any curvature of the palmar
stay 58 may be properly oriented for therapeutic effect for either
of a left or right sided application. An example of a palmar stay
58 curvature is exemplified by curvature 57 which generally
corresponds to the palm of a hand. The configuration of the palmar
stay 58 is particularly adapted to be reversible so that it will
correspond to left and right handed configurations depending on its
orientation.
[0069] As depicted in FIG. 2, a strap 62 is affixed to a proximal
end 59 of the palmar stay 58 to facilitate withdrawal of the palmar
stay 58 from the palmar pocket 60. The strap 62 may have a surface
covered at least partially with a hook fastening material 63 that
may be fastened to the pad 20, both to retain the palmar stay 58 in
place within the palmar pocket 60 and to secure the strap 62. The
strap 62 is exemplified as being pivotably secured to the palmar
stay 58 via a fastener 65.
[0070] Dorsal stays 64 may be disposed within the dorsal section 52
to provide additional stiffening or support. The dorsal stays 64
are shown fixed within the dorsal section 52. Alternatively, the
dorsal section 52 may be provided with a pocket for removal and
replacement of the dorsal stays 64. Other splints, stays or
supports may be provided elsewhere within the pad.
[0071] Dorsal stays 64 are preferably located near or adjacent to
the ulnar side of the wrist brace. Depending on the size of the
patient, a dorsal stay may become positioned directly over the
ulnar side. Dual dorsal stays 64 allows conformance with the ulnar
side and elimination of pressure on the ulnar side in both left and
right sided configurations. In one dual stay configuration, the
dorsal stays 64 are attached at the proximal end (in a "Y" or a
"tuning fork" shape).
[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, a split dorsal stay comprises
a pair of dorsal stays 64 that are located side-by side and
parallel to one another. Other configurations may be employed, such
as a single stay or additional plural stays. In a variation of the
depicted wrist brace, pockets for the splints or stays are
eliminated, and splints or stays attached directly to the surface
of the pad with a hook fastening material.
[0073] Turning now to FIGS. 8 and 9, the wrist brace 10 is shown
worn about a left wrist (FIG. 8) and a right wrist (FIG. 9). It can
be recognized that configuration for left or right handed use
requires: (1) positioning the strap pod 42 and the hook tab for
left or right handed closure; (2) orienting the palmar stay within
the palmar pocket 60 for left or right handed use; (3) positioning
the pad about the wrist; and (4) positioning the reversible
fastening member 32 so that its hook fastening material side faces
the surface of the pad to secure the distal retaining strap 30 in
place.
[0074] It can be seen that the position of the reversible fastening
member 32, which secures the distal retaining strap 30 about the
hand between thumb and forefinger, is reversed in the right handed
application (FIG. 9) relative to the left handed application (FIG.
8) by twisting the cord loop swivel cord 36.
[0075] It can also be observed that the left handed closure
position of the strap pod 42 is on the outside surface of the pad
20 when the pad 20 is wrapped about a left limb, while the right
handed closure position of the strap pod 42 is simply the opposite
surface, or the outside surface of the pad 20 when the pad 20 is
wrapped about a right limb.
[0076] In addition to providing for left or right sided use, the
removable strap pod 42 may be varied in position on either side of
the pad to lengthen, or shorten, the extension of the straps 46 to
obtain a proper fit. This adds to increased versatility by the
preferred construction of the pad surfaces as generally being
defined by the continuous unbroken loop material (inclusive of
seams dividing portions of these surfaces).
[0077] Color coded markings or indicia may be provided on the pad,
or on removable parts of the wrist brace, or on both, to indicate
the correct attachment position for the various removable parts for
both left and right sided configurations. Such color coded markings
or indicia provide assistance to a patient in configuring the brace
20 for use.
[0078] In accordance with another embodiment of the orthopedic
brace according to the present invention, FIGS. 10 and 11 depict a
thumb brace 100 that incorporates many of the features of the
aforementioned wrist brace embodiments and the variations thereof.
The thumb brace 100 includes a softgood pad 102 similarly
constructed as the pad 20 of the wrist brace 10 so as to have
generally continuous first and second surfaces constructed from an
unbroken loop material.
[0079] The pad 102 includes a distal edge 106, a proximal edge 108,
a radial edge 108, and a dorsal edge 109. While the pad 102 has
generally continuous first and second surfaces, these surfaces are
divided into sections including a first radial section 110, a
second radial section 112, an intermediate section 113, a palmar
section 114, an ulnar section 116, and a dorsal section 118. As
with the sections of the wrist brace 10, the sections of the thumb
brace are preferably divided by a plurality of seams.
[0080] As with the wrist brace 10, the thumb brace 100 includes a
plurality of stays and pockets formed by the pad for receiving such
stays. Preferably, the thumb brace 100 includes a first radial stay
120 and a corresponding first radial stay pocket 122, and a second
radial stay 124 and a corresponding second radial stay pocket 126.
The thumb brace 100 further includes a removable palmar stay 128, a
corresponding palmar stay pocket 130, and a palmar pocket flap
132.
[0081] The palmar stay 128 may be configured as the palmar stay 58
in the wrist brace 10 including the flap connected to the palmar
stay. Alternatively, the pocket flap 132 extends from the pad 102
and closes the palmar stay pocket 130.
[0082] In observing FIGS. 10-13, the thumb brace 100 includes a
distal closure member in the form of an intermediate flap having
first and second sections 134, 136 which extend from the distal
edge 106 and near the radial edge 108. These first and second
sections 134, 136 generally extend from the intermediate section
1.13, and are preferably divided by a defined crease 138 so as to
remain generally continuous with one another. First and second
section straps 140, 142, extend from the first and second sections
134, 136, respectively, and are adapted to secure to a plurality of
locations along the pad 102.
[0083] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the intermediate flap 134, 136
is a unitary flap that is divided along the crease 138 to
substantially extend in two different directions. The first section
134 is configured along the crease 138 so as to wrap about a thumb.
In particular, the first section 134 extends about the second
radial stay 124 and the first strap 140 connects to either a loop
island 180 generally extending across the first and second radial
sections 110, 112. The loop island 180 is preferably a broken loop
material so as to provide a strong connection with the hook
material of the first strap 140.
[0084] The second section 136 essentially performs the function of
the fastening member 32 in accordance with the wrist brace 10. As
such, the second section 136 is adapted to the intermediate flap
about the hand between thumb and forefinger to retain the brace on
the hand and to further secure the thumb via its connection to the
first section 134.
[0085] The continuous configuration of the intermediate flap by way
of the crease 138 dividing the first and second sections 134, 136,
provides improved comfort to the wearer over thumb strap systems
wherein one or more thumb straps are employed. For example, FIG. 13
shows how the first and second sections 134, 136 may include
padding that is less than, equal to, or in addition to padding that
is used for the remainder of the pad 102. Further, the thickness of
the first and second sections 134, 136 may be sized larger than the
straps 140, 142, thereby more evenly distributing the pressure
exerted to the hand. Moreover, the continuous configuration of the
intermediate flap contributes to additional durability of the brace
in that the straps need only be secured to the larger ends of the
first and second sections, and are not required to extend between
the thumb and the forefinger.
[0086] The thumb brace 100 preferably includes a dorsal flap 144
that depends from the dorsal section 118. The dorsal flap 144 is
constructed from a stretchable material and is intended to cover a
portion of the arm when the thumb brace 100 is worn. Alternatively,
the dorsal flap 144 may be constructed in a similar manner to the
tongue 66 in the wrist brace 10. The dorsal flap 144 includes a
stiffener band 146 located at one edge thereof, with a hook flap
148 extending therefrom. The stiffener band 146 may comprise a loop
material, a stay, or suitable material to reinforce the edge upon
which it is secured. Due to the continuous unbroken loop material
surfaces of the pad 102, the hook flap 148 may secure to a variety
of locations along the pad 102.
[0087] Turning to FIG. 14, the second radial or thumb stay 124 is
generally contoured to the radial aspect of the hand and includes
first and second segments 184, 186. The tip of the second radial
stay 124 is particularly contoured to accommodate the thumb aspect
of the hand via a tapered segment or tip 188 and a thumb flange
190. The thumb flange 190 depends from the tapered segment 188 at
generally 90.degree. so as to accommodate a thumb. The second
radial stay 124 may also include a concave portion 192 anatomically
contoured to receive a portion of a thumb.
[0088] FIG. 15 illustrates a variation of a strap pod 150 that may
be used in accordance with any of the embodiments described herein.
Specifically, the strap pod 150 includes a main body 152 having a
stiffened portion 153. The stiffened portion 153 preferably defines
a first surface including a section defined by loop material
(broken or unbroken) 154, and a second surface including a section
of hook material 194. A stiffener element 196 is provided on or
within the main body 152.
[0089] The strap pod 150 further comprises first and second straps
156, 170, extending from the main body 152. Each of the first and
second straps includes a hook portion 160, 172, respectively, and a
loop section 158, 171, respectively. The first and second straps
156, 170 are configured for being received by corresponding strap
retainers 178 extending along the radial edge 108 of the pad
102.
[0090] An island 174 is secured to the main body 152, and forms a
slot 176 relative to the main body 152. The slot 176 is configured
for receiving a strap 162 secured near or on one of the first and
second radial sections 110, 112 thereby enabling the strap pod 150
is slide along the strap 162. The strap 162 includes a hook
material portion 164, and a loop material portion 166.
[0091] Since the strap pod 150 is slidable along the strap 162, and
by virtue of the pad 102 surfaces being formed of continuous loop
material, the strap pod 150 may be secured at a variety of
locations along the pad 102. This provides considerable flexibility
to where the strap pod may be secured, thereby allowing the wrist
brace to be useable for a variety of wrist sizes.
[0092] FIGS. 16 and 17 exemplify the thumb brace 100 on a wrist and
for securing a thumb. Moreover, the thumb brace 100 is shown as
having all of the aforementioned straps secured to the continuous
material forming the surfaces of the brace.
[0093] It is to be understood that not necessarily all such objects
or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular
embodiment of the invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in
the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied or
carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or
group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving
other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested
herein.
[0094] The skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeability of
various components from different embodiments described herein. In
addition to the variations described herein, other known
equivalents for each feature can be mixed and matched by one of
ordinary skill in this art to construct an orthopedic brace in
accordance with principles of the present invention. Therefore, the
embodiments described herein may be adapted to orthopedic systems
for securing, supporting or comforting limbs or other anatomy.
[0095] Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of
certain preferred embodiments and examples, it therefore will be
understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention
extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other
alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious
modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that
the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be
limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above,
but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that
follow.
* * * * *